AFCON 2025
Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance, scoring the first FIFA World Cup hat-trick of his illustrious career as Argentina cruised to a 3-0 victory over Algeria in their Group J clash in Kansas City.
The 39-year-old captain, appearing at a record sixth FIFA World Cup, stole the show with three trademark finishes that underlined why he remains one of football’s greatest-ever players.
Messi opened the scoring with a stunning long-range effort before reacting quickest to convert from close range after Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane spilled a shot. He completed his hat-trick with a clinical finish into the bottom corner, sealing all three points for La Albiceleste.
The treble also saw Messi reach another historic milestone. His three goals took his World Cup tally to 16, drawing him level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest goalscorer in men’s FIFA World Cup history.
Argentina’s dominance was reflected throughout the contest, with Algeria struggling to create opportunities. The North Africans endured a frustrating evening and, for the first time in their World Cup history, failed to register a single shot on target. Their misery was compounded when an early goal was ruled out for offside.
The result puts Argentina in a strong position in Group J ahead of their next fixture against Austria on June 22 in Dallas, while Algeria will look to bounce back when they face Jordan later the same day in San Francisco.
On a night filled with records and history, Messi once again reminded the football world of his enduring brilliance, delivering a performance that will be remembered as one of the standout moments of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
